Kruger Shalati Luxury Lodge - The Train On The Bridge

Kruger National Park in South Africa is already a lust-worthy destination, but thanks to an unusual new hotel, it's about to get even better. The Kruger Shalati is perhaps the most innovative accommodation, as it was once a luxury train that has now been refurbished into an equally luxurious hotel.

Now sits permanently stationed on the Selati Bridge hovering above the Sabie River. The train pays homage to the guests who explored the park nearly 100 years ago. At the time, the train would park overnight in the exact spot where Kruger Shalati is now positioned.

Inside the train, you are greeted with glass-walled rooms, so you can take in the expansive views all day long (one of my favourites in the train). Each room comes with plush furnishings, floor-to-ceiling windows, and even soaking tubs so you can sit in your own bath while watching the sun go down in one of the most beautiful places on Earth.

Each carriage is equipped with a fully stocked mini bar, tea and coffee station with snacks, a small seating area; glass doors open out onto a small Juliet balcony that overlooks the river and surrounding bush.

The train also comes complete with its own deck and pool so guests can safely swim high above the crocodile, hippos, buffalos, and elephants swimming in the river water below. Not forgetting views from this pool are insanely stunning, set in tranquil surroundings of the Kruger National Park.

Game Drive Experience
Game drives at Kruger Shalati are undertaken by professional rangers who are eager to share their in-depth knowledge and stories of the fascinating wildlife and surroundings. Part of the package you are given two game drive a day- one around 05h00am (CAT)- get to see the animals early in the morning as they prepare to hunt and one later in the afternoon. Part and parcel with this is drinks and snacks as you explore the Kruger National Park and a plethora of African animals.

The Kruger Shalati train prides itself in offering African inspired and authentic African. This goes hand in hand with the African and nature experience they offer to guests.  An abundance of exquisite dishes, paired with an authentic African atmosphere and majestic views of the Sabie River, makes for an exceptional dining experience.

African Spa Treatment

Different types of Spas are a part of the services that this stay offers, such as deep tissue massages, aromatherapy massages, and the characteristic African hot stone massage, which combines firm, flowing strokes with the piercing heat of warm stones or copper pebbles. Various facial remedies along with manicures and pedicures are also included.

As a restored locomotive stationed on the Selati Bridge, this train-hotel is unlike any luxury accommodation found within Kruger Park.